Pink Beds Picnic Shelter
PINK BEDS PICNIC SHELTER
Part of National Forests in North Carolina
Overview
The Pink Beds Picnic Shelter is nestled within Pisgah National Forest along the scenic US 276 corridor. It sits adjacent to the historic Cradle of Forestry in America and is set within a lush woodland valley renowned for rhododendron, mountain laurel, azalea blooms, and rare high-altitude bogs—giving the area its iconic name.
Facilities
The area has a flush toilet restroom, 21 picnic tables, grills, an old Civilian Conservation Corps gazebo, and this large shelter. The parking area is a paved lot utilized for both Pink Beds Picnic Area and Pink Beds Loop Trailhead.
Natural Features
Named for the rhododendron, mountain laurel and azalea that bloom in spring and summer, the Pink Beds Picnic Shelter is renowned for its scenic forest setting and small stream nearby. At an elevation of 3,280 feet, it is appealing to visitors for its relatively flat valley which sustains some very large pine trees and rare mountain bogs.Recreation
As part of the Pisgah National Forest, the Pink Beds area offers excellent opportunities. Visitors can pair a visit to the shelter with exploring the gentle, family-friendly Pink Beds Loop Trail—a scenic 5-mile hike through diverse habitats with boardwalks over boggy wetlands, creek crossings, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The surrounding area is ideal for other types of recreation including fishing, horseback riding, and swimming. In addition, visitors are just steps away from the Cradle of Forestry in America, a historic site celebrating the birthplace of modern forest conservation. The Cradle of Forestry offers an indoor museum, paved hiking trails, outdoor exhibits, theater, cafe, and a gift shop.
Nearby Attractions
The area is next door to the Cradle of Forestry in America Historic Site, and four miles from both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Sliding Rock Recreation Area.Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (828) 866-3437.Important Notices
- Restrooms are closed during the winter months (mid-November through late March/early April).
- Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
Available Activities
- Historic & Cultural Site - Historic & Cultural Site
- Picnicking - Picnicking
- Hiking - Hiking
- Day Use Area - Day Use Area
- Environmental Education - Environmental Education
Directions
From Pisgah Ranger Station/ Visitor Center parking lot, turn right onto US 276. Drive north approximately 10 miles to Pink Beds Picnic Area. The facility is located along Hwy 276 (Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway) 4 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and 11 miles from the intersection of Hwy 280 and US 64 in Pisgah Forest, NC.
Contact Information
Phone: 828 877-3265
1600 Pisgah HighwayPisgah Forest, NC 28768
